Twelve-year-old Nandaba Naota's older brother has departed for America to play baseball, leaving the confused Naota alone with his brother's 17-year-old girlfriend, Samejima Mamimi. It doesn't help that she flirts with him constantly, or that his brother has sent him a rather disturbing letter from America. When the tomboyish Haruhara Haruko enters the scene, running down Naota with her motorscooter before smashing him over the head with her guitar, things will never be the same again.

Twelve-year-old Nandaba Naota's older brother has departed for America to play baseball, leaving the confused Naota alone with his brother's 17-year-old girlfriend, Samejima Mamimi. It doesn't help that she flirts with him constantly, or that his brother has sent him a rather disturbing letter from America. When the tomboyish Haruhara Haruko enters the scene, running down Naota with her motorscooter before smashing him over the head with her guitar, things will never be the same again.

FLCL
I watched this one a while back, over a year ago, but still remember it. It's a really good watch.. rather a buy. I'm not into music in anime but this one was pretty good. My usual scores for music is from 5-7 but this one rates about an 8. The animation was smooth and fluid... one of the things I really look at when choosing a series/oav to take my time on. What's even better was how it flopped from the normal animation to a southpark-ish paper cutout style, to a manga art.

It's definately an aquired taste. On the onset, you might get lost... rather, you "will" get lost and quite confused at what is going on, reality or imagination. The story unfolds quickly, almost insanely and if you don't pay attention, you'll end up giving up on this one after the first episode.. if you make it to the end. To be honest, I had to watch it twice to pick up on some of the things I didn't catch the first time.

The cool thing about this anime, what i loved about it was how the story takes you around a huge mad and insane round-about way of a simple.... coming-of-age tale. I loved it!

FLCL
Well, we all knew it had to happen but finally Gainax have let their ambition get the best of them. Sure, having the animation style jump from Matrix to manga was interesting for about the first ten minutes, but where is the story to back this up?

To be fair, even Gainax's best anime (Gunbuster, Evangelion and Karekano) were twisted and experimental. But what these series also had were interesting plots and, more importantly, great characters. Here, Gainax pushes the stylistic elements of KareKano to the extreme; the animation skips back and forth from normal, to 3D, to deformed, to manga line drawings. What Gainax don't seem to realise is that KareKano and Evangelion suceeded despite- not because of- these artistic jumps. In FLCL, these stylistic elements dominate the series to such an extent that everything else gets pushed aside.

There's not even a trace of coherency in the storyline here; you could search for some deep "symbolism" and try to make sense of it all, but it looks suspiciously like the creators just inserted a bunch of random stuff they thought sounded fun (Mecha coming from a guys head? Hey great!...a guy with crazy eyebrows, why not?....) And the characters just chew up screen time by being 'uselessly energetic' and shouting a lot. And what is this series really supposed to be? Mecha action? Warped romantic comedy? Intense drama? We're left to wonder if even Gainax knew what the hell they were making.

Some fans will argue that this lazy self-indulgence is part of the deal with Gainax. But it can also be seen as arrogant. You get the feeling that Gainax knew their status in the anime world, and could slap together some incoherent nonsense and pass it off as 'artistic'. Reading the gushingly enthusiastic reviews below, I wonder if the joke's on us the audience.

FLCL
Ah, FLCL. The series gives me enough memories thanks to being the first mind-screw anime I had exposure to and was fun enough for me as such where I recorded the episodes of it that originally aired on its first Adult Swim run in 2003 and watched it enough times through college until the VHS tape I had of it eventually wore out. Being one of Gainax's most memorable titles, the series focuses on sixth grader Naota Nandaba whose life is turned upside down thanks to the antics of alien girl Haruko Haruhara.

FLCL is a series that will not be enjoyed by everyone thanks to its seemingly random and nonsensical nature if folks are coming into the series for the first time. The show's humor comes from the unpredictability of Haruko's character and Naota putting up with all the adults around him behaving immaturely for their age within the town of Mabase. The series also isn't afraid to make nods to other anime titles and break the fourth wall with its humor at points. For the most part though, FLCL's over-the-top humor was an enjoyable ride for me as it felt spontaneous and meshed well with the themes it delve into.

Yes, I said themes. As crazy as it is to believe, FLCL is a coming-of-age series exploring how Naota should view his life as he approaches adolescence. Without spoiling too much, the kid finds Haruko's presence in his life leading him to learn more about what it is like to be an adult and finding his purpose in life. Several other relevant characters in the series also get their focus as FLCL explores how they perceive maturity and being an adult depending on their current situations. Gainax is clever enough to plant in some subtle things hinting to how characters develop and perceive their situation throughout FLCL and leave enough open with its coming-of-age themes where folks would have to rewatch the series more than once and can come to their own conclusions over what the series was trying to depict with its themes.

The show also has an ongoing plot that it dabbles into involving the mystery of Haruko's character and the robots that come out of Naota's head in each episode of the series. In spite of her eccentric traits, Haruko is hinted throughout FLCL to have more ulterior motives as to why she is sticking around Naota's house and manipulating events to go her way and having more dimension to her character than on the surface. The robots coming out of Naota's head are also connected to her presence on Earth and the series explores more about their origins as the series progresses.

Visually, FLCL is something of a rather oddball case much like the complicated details on its storytelling that I just covered. The scenery and character design quality is noticeably more on par with a late 1990s TV anime than an OVA with washed-out colors, minimal detail on scenic shots and moments where the series can resort to animation shortcuts to cut on corners. At the same time, the series does add in some clever animated sequences and unique styles at varying points of the series such as its famous animated manga sequences, a spinning 3-D camera sequence in its first episode and South Park style animation seen in the fifth episode. It looked like Gainax knew how to better conserve its animation budget to milk the unique moments of animation for FLCL since they were notorious for going overbudget with several of their works during the 1990s.

FLCL's soundtrack is another unique element to the series as it is performed entirely by the Japanese alternative rock band, The Pillows. Mixing around high-energy and low-key vocal tracks throughout the anime's run, the tracks sung by the Pillows are a perfect fit to the sometimes manic and sometimes insightful moments witnessed throughout FLCL's run.

Overall, FLCL is easily among one of Gainax's most famous works and it shows with its manic and insightful coming-of-age story and sci-fi plot centered around preteen Naota and crazy alien officer Haruko. The series won't be for everyone thanks to its manic humor and those who cannot see past it. But if you are open-minded enough to indulge in the insanity that FLCL offers up, the series is a definite recommendation worth checking out.

Last updated Saturday, January 30 2016. Created Saturday, January 05 2008.

FLCL
I don't like to give a half-assed opinion on anime, but I wasn't able to give my complete attention to this title. It took just two episodes for me to get turned off. I know I should watch the entire thing, but it's just unbearable. I'm a person who likes their anime in a certain way. For those who enjoy a non-linear type of series, then this is it. For those (like myself) who like their anime straight to the point, this may not be the series for you. It starts off quite normally but then just loses all sense once the story rolls along. I guess I expected a lot after reading so many positive reviews. All I got to say is that you'll have to watch it for yourself. I'm gonna try to watch it all, but chances are that might not happen.

Last updated Tuesday, August 09 2005. Created Tuesday, August 09 2005.

FLCL
What can I say about FLCl it is bizarre and yet holds your attention. It is not for the young however. The story line holds your attention and the young boy telling the story adds a new twist. As he goes through these different transformations it grips your imagination and puts you in a diiferent dimension in your mind.

FLCL
Being the long time anime fan that I am, I love it when I watch something that stops me dead in my tracks when I watch it. FLCL was one of those animes. The first time I watched it, I was like a lot of people and just kind said to myself, "What in the world was that?!?! After viewing now several times, I still see things that I missed before.
It is a coming of age story unlike you have ever seen before or will see again I am willing to wager. Much has been written on the web and in the media about this, but you have to judge it for yourself. The animation and music (provided mostly by the indie Japanese band The Pillows) are a cut above the rest. I don't think I have enjoyed a soundtrack as much since Cowboy Bebop or Macross Plus.
Gainax, the makers of such animes as Kane Kano, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Wings of Honneamise, and Mahoromatic, shows again why in my opinion why they are the best studio out there in anime. They never seem willing not to push the envelope in what can be done with anime.
One note I would make, this is not really for the younger viewers out there. There is a good seal of sexual overtones through much of the series given the subject matter.

Last updated Wednesday, February 02 2005. Created Wednesday, February 02 2005.

FLCL
The first time I watched this series, I think my first reaction was to fall on the ground twitching in confusion. Let's just say, if you intend to understand what's going on, you're not allowed to blink. Other than the confusion factor, FLCL is a hilarious series that is great for any anime fan. It's not the most fascinating story ever, being only six episodes long, but it certainly does leave you breathless.

Last updated Tuesday, February 01 2005. Created Tuesday, February 01 2005.

FLCL
Oh my god....
A very strange series that often leaves the question, "What The hell just happened?"
good review by Buzze and anonymous
It's a great show, full of laughs and action and not much sense.
All in all I think I would reccomend this series to any who has never been a fan of conventional anime.

Last updated Friday, January 28 2005. Created Friday, January 28 2005.

FLCL
I heard of this before I saw it. When I first saw it I was blown away! The intensity and hectic nature of the animation hides the struggle of a boy with puberty and the problem of all young kids: bordom. A magnificent Anime made for Anime fans and oursiders alike. The shear intensity of the work can convert any anime hater.

Last updated Tuesday, December 14 2004. Created Tuesday, December 14 2004.

FLCL
Crazy. Absolutely crazy.
Here we go: a 12 year old being lusted after by his brother's 17 year old ex?-girlfriend gets hit in the head with a guitar swung by an alien woman on a vespa and proptly starts to spout robots out of his head, which said vespa-woman also hits in the head with said guitar. Combine with 1 perverted dad, 1 robot-saviour/inter-galazy theif, 1 pyro-maniac girl, and 6 episodes of unexplained, and nigh-unexplainable plot and characters, and you have a winning crazy anime.
Watch this many times, or don't watch it at all.

FLCL
ok i have to point out..yes u need to understand sum anime to get this and dont expect to understand anythign at all until the end..when i watched the first episode of this show i was like..ok im gonna understand this once it ends...*eps 1 end* and im still just like..WUT THE HELL DID I JUST SEE!? then eps 2-3 comes and i still got NOTHING...then 4-6 makes MORE SENSE but i watched this like 5 times and i still miss stuff..this anime is really good tho. animation is awsome, characters r well developed and story is really good...once u find it..ppl complain that theres no story but thats untrue..u have to watch it all to find it tho haahah i loved this anime and the music was awsome..pillows are really great in this show..i heard it in english..terrible lol..i watched the japanese director commentaries and i could hella tell that he was lying when he said the english dubbing did a good job..think of the story sorta like..hmm confusing...like the instrumentality of eva and multiply the complexity by at least a million..then ull have like one element of FLCL's story figured. but dont let that stop u..this anime is awsome. and near perfect..too bad onli 6 eps tho

FLCL
When I firsted watch this, it didnt register in my brain at all. It was like just watching the clouds all day. I've now seen it 3 full times, and its starting to make sense. As long as story is not your cup of tea, take a look, but don't try to understand it. It gives you a really bad heaache if you do

FLCL
Okay. (Deep breath)^_^ Here we go. I'll just start by saying that it took me two tries to get it. The first time I watched it I laughed at the off-the wall humor and shots at various anime cliches. The second time I watched it, it was like a light switch had been thrown and I realized that there was a story--a serious, actually pretty sad story--underneath. A lot of people have given a lot of opinions about this story, so I'll give mine.
I think what's going on is not really all that complex of a storyline, to tell you the truth--it just takes a while to pick up on it through the constant, rapidly-fired dialogue. I think what's going on in FLCL is that evrything has been flipped. It's a coming-of-age story, except that the ideas in Naota's head--the chaotic jumble of thoughts and wishes and desires and emotions that are normal to adolescence--are on the outside instead of the inside. They are things rather than ideas--they come out of his head-- and affect the people around him--in the most literal possible way. Who knows, this whole story might not be intended to be taken literally--maybe it's all symbolism for what's going on in Naota's life. Then again, maybe I'm thinking too hard. ^_^
I liked the music in this. I don't normally like this type, but it was a very good fit to the show. It backed up the surreal animation very well--I actually got a little freaked out in a couple of places when the music and animation was creepy and tense enough. I see that as a good thing.
The bad thing is, so much of the humor and so many of the connections between ideas in this show have to do with Japanese wordplay. The dubbers did a very good job, I thought, of making most of them make sense anyway, but it would still be nice to get the full irony that comes with the original language.
Again, I liked this anime. I'd reccomend it to two groups of people: people who want to take the challenge pick out wordplay and symbolism and feel the satisfaction af finding a method to the madness and people who want to just kind of kick back and enjoy the ride. And it is a wierd ride, believe me. (Lol. Does anyone else feel like they're on Reading Rainbow when they do this? "Don't take my word for it..." ^_^)

FLCL
this is an amazing anime. it's from gainax so what do you expect. theres just something great about being hit in the head with a bass by a chick who drives a flying vespa, your brothers old girlfriend who has the hots for you because you remind her of your brother, a father thats a gossipy journalist, a robot that sprung from your head, and the fate of the world in your hands at some point.

FLCL
This is the "Lost Highway" of anime, but its less secretive.
Quite frankly for me this is what an OAV should be, eventhough it really doesnt make sense in the way most people want it to, the quirky high action subversive and ironic plot to this story mold together to create what is perhaps a new standard to all anime. Things suche as Eri wearing the USSR/CCCP shirt as the mayors daughter, and all of the animation changes are so well done that they are ignored. the mostimportnt note however is dont watchit when tired, only two things can come out of it, wide awke confusion, or an odd want to know what that band that palyed in the backround.

FLCL
When I first saw this anime, I was thinking "Whaaaa....." My brain was actually thinking on what the hell they were doing. This anime has action, girls and alot of weirdness, I was a huge beginner in anime, and this is my first weird anime> You're in for a rough ride if you are a beginner too. Please appreciate this wonderful classic, errr, i mean, WEIRDNESS.

Last updated Sunday, January 11 2004. Created Sunday, January 11 2004.

FLCLFLCL must be watched more than once.
I really hated the show after the first 3 episodes on fansub but hung on. After watching it all, I still didn't get what the fuss was about thinking it was waaaaay overated.
When I found out it was gonna air on Cartoon Network, I quickly bought the last dvd volume with box cuz I knew people were gonna go nuts for it since it seems to be a fan favorite.
I'M GLAD I DID! I changed my mind about everything and its amazing! Alot of thought was put into the show even though it seems like complete nonsense all the time.
Its worth checking out. You may not understand anything at first, or may not at all. Just give it time to work it in your system^_^

Last updated Wednesday, November 19 2003. Created Wednesday, November 19 2003.

FLCL
well I decided to watch some episodes because someone on a hentai forum mentioned it as "fooly cooley". and my impression is definately a good one, for one thing it is made by Gainax. plenty of eye candy via computer generated cg and some pretty nice animation. only problem was trying to absorb the anime in full the first time i watched it, too much for a hentai fan to try and absorb in one watch.
buy the domestic dvds, the companies deserve every penny =)

Last updated Saturday, November 01 2003. Created Wednesday, October 29 2003.

FLCL
I'm not a huge anime fan. I like things like Akira, Jin Roh, Cowboy Bebop, etc...I never got into Ranma 7/8 or whatever the hell it is called. Anyhoo,Furi Kuri I like.
After watching the 1st episode, I sat there and was like "WTF, over?" It didn't make any sense. In fact, nothing in it really makes sense until the final episode. And then you sit back and go "Oh...ok".
I've seen both the English Dub and the japanese version. The Dub is awesome. It doesn't detract from the story like most dubs. In fact, I like the dub version better, if for the only reason I love the voice of Haruko. Very playful and full of mischief. The character of Haruko is a highlight for the series. The scene in episode four where she gets the massage...sorry getting distracted.
The other characters shine as well. The father is fun to watch and the final scene where he discusses why they can't do the manga format is hilarious.
Overall, this is great stuff. My only wish? That there are more than six epeisodes.

Last updated Wednesday, October 29 2003. Created Wednesday, October 29 2003.

FLCL
Nothing out of the amazing ever happens, it's just the same old same old.
There's nothing amazing, just the norm ...
Enter Naota, a young boy having trouble finding his way through life since his brother left to the US to play baseball. He lives his boring life in a boring city that seems like a prison, guarded by the insanely large factory, where medical machines are made by Medical Mechanica.
And then he gets hit by the Vespa-woman called Haruhara Haruko, who then wallops him over the head with a guitar. After this, nothing will be the same anymore.
People who claim to understand what's going on after seeing all episodes just once: they lie.
People who claim the same after seeing all episodes 10 times: they lie too!
People who try to compare this with Excel Saga because both don't make sense are definitely wrong. They both make sense, but you have to work for it!
Lots of things are not explained in this story: who are Medical Mechanica? Who are the pirates? Who is Atomsk? What is commander Amarao's organisation? And above all: what's with the eyebrows?FLCL combines an intriguing story with an amazing animation and an excellent music score. Some people might consider the art below average, but in my opinion: less is more. I like it a lot.
The story doesn't reveil much of what is going on, few things are thoroughly explained. It's a bit like Star Wars, where the first movie actually is the fourth, and the first three aren't made yet (and yes, I know this comparison is out of date!) which leaves a lot for your own interpretation.
The animation is great. It combines normal anime with animated manga, matrix- and southparkparody, and some fighting scenes are the best I've ever seen. (The fight in the barbershop and the paintball-game for example.)
Downside to this whole thing is the fact that you have to see it a few times before you even start to get an idea of what's going on. At first, the animation and music demand most of your attention. This means that some people might become disappointed before finishing the serie. Oh, and the serie is way too short!
Best character: Naota's father
Best moment: Naota's father talking about hamsters.
update: if you like some answers: read the manga.
There's one catch: the overall story just becomes more confusing after two volumes. Can't wait to get the rest!

Last updated Friday, September 24 2004. Created Friday, October 24 2003.

FLCL
FuriKuri is sooo cool it is confusing.watch it,like it,buy it is what u will probably do.it gets confusing but continue to watch and u will figure it out.buy it.if u r out of $$(like me) then watch it over and over till u get more $$.WATCH IT U WILL LIKE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!did i mention to WATCH IT AND BUY IT!!!!!!!!!

Last updated Saturday, September 13 2003. Created Saturday, September 13 2003.

FLCL
On one hand, it is very cool. On the other, it's way over hyped.
Excellent music, great animation, very fast paced, it doesn't get boring or hit any lulls. I enjoyed it. Discussions involving sporks and South Park references, what's not to like? There's just tons of fantastic detail that went into this one.
However, I wouldn't describe it as brilliant as I've seen so many do. I think because it's so manic and nonsensical that people try to impose some great message or order that isn't really there, just so they can squeeze FLCL into a FLCL shaped box.
If you're just looking for some entertainment--and don't mind if it doesn't make a lot of sense--FLCL is a good pick. However, lots of people don't like it or aren't nearly as impressed as everyone says they should be. Check it out, you might like it--then again you might not.

Last updated Thursday, September 11 2003. Created Thursday, September 11 2003.

FLCL
i have to admit, this was the first anime show/movie i have ever seen. i think it is a good one to watch if youre not so experience because it doesnt get annoying or boring.
the robots coming out of the head, the little details about the drinks and the curry and the fighting scenes with the bass were rad. i would never have thought of it. and even if it was sort of confusing, the music is still great.
oh yes, now im hooked on anime.

Last updated Tuesday, August 26 2003. Created Tuesday, August 26 2003.

FLCLFLCL will not hold your hand and lead you gently through its twists and turns. Point blank: FLCL is probably the weirdest anime ever produced. Yes, even weirder than Excel Saga! But the weirdest part is: this series actually works!
The art is basic GAINAX design, but the animation is where FLCL really shines. This series used all sorts of video and digital wizardry; no expense was spared, and it shows! Character movements are fluid, colors are sharp and vivid, and it's almost like watching HDTV. You won't believe how beautiful FLCL looks!FLCL's music is brought to you by a previously-little-known group called The Pillows. Their brand of energetic J-rock with a peppy, upbeat tone is not to be missed! Songs like "Little Busters" and "Ride On Shooting Star" hit a poignant, but pleasant, note and fit perfectly in the production! This series possibly represents the best marriage of appropriate music and anime ... ever!
I gave lower scores to the "story" ratings mostly to acknowledge that most people will not get FLCL on the first try. In fact, anyone who tells you that they understood this series on the first viewing is a liar! To wit, it should be noted that exposition does exist in FLCL ... it's just sprinkled throughout. If you want to know what I mean, look at the fourth episode (it explains what is going on with Naota's head) and PAY ATTENTION. The details are there, but they are parsed out bit by bit. Some very important story notes are hidden in all the overt wackiness!
Kudos go to Synch Point for creating a dub that heralds the Japanese voice acting, yet stands on its own as a near masterpiece! With all the characters shouting over each other and all the Japanese references, coupled with the overall quick pace of the show ... FLCL is probably the most difficult anime to try to dub, yet Synch Point pulled it off with nary a hitch! The dub, which is airing for a short time on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim, is not to be missed!
Overall, FLCL is not perfect. But, what is? This is probably GAINAX's finest work. At six all-too-short episodes, there's no reason why any anime fan (though fans who have experienced many titles may catch more of the in-jokes) should not experience FLCL! Strap in and hold on ... it's a weird ride!

Last updated Thursday, August 21 2003. Created Thursday, August 21 2003.

FLCL
At the beggining, it's kinda confusing cause you don't know what the characters are talkin about. As you keep watching, you'll understand the whole story. I really liked how the whole thing is played out. The thing about it is that it's short, 1-6 episodes came out.

FLCL
The first episode establishes background and setting, the environs of the town, a landscape dominated by the Medical Machina plant resembling nothing so much as a giant smoke belching steam iron on a flat featureless expanse, and the inciting events, the arrival of the electric guitar wielding alien girl on her motor scooter mysteriously drawn into town by the strange growths appearing on the head of the protagonist. And the final episode wraps things up and explains everything. Not to say that anything makes all that much sense, however, it is explained!
The show basically follows the familiar sexists sex fantasy of anime aimed at young girls, of a hapless male contended for by multiple crazy and conniving aggressive females. -An ego fantasy for men, a power fantasy for unformed young girls, by which they are to be drawn into socialization and indoctrination. Except that, 'FLCL', produced, after all, by Gainax studios, "anime by nerds for nerds", and being by far more literate than the likes of 'Tenchi Muyo', subverts this mold, presenting romantic interests, not little women but misfits, not as they might appear, simply demanding, crazy and conniving, but difficult to understand, following complicated motivation. Likewise, the youthful protagonist, is not merely clueless, but deep and withdrawn, struggling.
Along with the chronically lying brazen and fearless alien girl, the protagonist struggles to come to terms with the winsome troubled lonely pheromone reeking apparently homeless chain-smoking probable arsonist schoolgirl girlfriend of the protagonist's elder brother gone to America to play baseball, and also cope with the protagonist's schoolmates and eccentric family. And as well as difficult courtship, sexual tension, heck, borderline child molestation! of the moody twelve year old protagonist, there are complications, lies, ulterior agendas, romantic triangles, jealousy and rejection.
Aside from complicating side plots and subplots, the formula of each episode remains fairly consistent. As soon as the emotional climax of our precocious protagonists girl troubles and issues pressed thereby arrives, the central problems are similarly resolved, and in a flash, as yet another giant robot springs forth from the brow of the protagonist, only to be kabonged by the electric guitar wielding alien girl on the motor scooter!
All in all, a pretty efficient system, as human interaction goes.
Depth of characterization, growth, surrealism, dazzling action, high production values and beautiful art design, often risqué and always loony comic relief, plus memorable background music from the hither to somewhat obscure Japanese Garage Band, The Pillows, have engendered a consensus of enthusiastic acclaim for the challenging, incomprehensible and difficult to follow but always very cool FLCL miniseries, all six half hour episodes, now running in the USA on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim late night programming block.

Last updated Saturday, August 16 2003. Created Saturday, August 16 2003.

FLCLFLCL is an unbelievably awesome series, in fact, I believe it to be the pinnacle of Gainax's works. The director of this series was told by Anno to just do everything because the director was really unsure of what to do. That's probably why he tossed everything from romance/comedy, action, mecha, and whole bunch of other stuff. Now I know what you're thinking "It doesn't make any sense." Well, if you were to really get the series, you need to be familiar with Japanese culture in terms of growing up.
See the thing about FLCL is that it's a story about staying a child. The town it takes place in represents childhood and the reason you can't see beyond the town (notice it's always a skyline that seems to be just an endless sky) is because it's an analogy of how kids don't fully see the world around them like adults. Also some of the confusing stuff comes from the drinks and the curry. If you notice at first, Naoto doesn't enjoy sour drinks, and in Japanese culture, only kids drink sweet drinks while the adults drink the sour stuff. Or the curry which you notice in episode 4, where it is spicy. Well only adults eat spicy curry in Japan because kids can't take it. And you notice that eyebrows doesn't like the spicy stuff, and yes, it's because he's just a huge kid. And you notice he has to stick eyebrows on to him because he's just a big kid trying to look like an adult.
Also, there's the numerous phallic symbolisms in the story which is to show puberty. Mamimi is basically a child who's grown up but doesn't want to (she wants to stay a child just like everyone else in the town). The reason she grew up is because she did something ecchi with Naoto's brother so she was forced to grow up but since she didn't want to, she was stuck in limbo. This is just for those who see it and are confused. There's no real plot unless you considered sheer randomness to show childhood and growing up in tandem a plot.
The animation, my goodness, how do I even start? The animation was so fluid and superb it was unbelievable. They really used a lot of cell counts for each movement which is what rawked. The music was also pretty kickass. The ending is just an awesome jrock that is just cool. All in all it was a kickass series that tells us not to grow up so fast, which is why it probably wasn't popular in Japan because in Japanese culture, growing up as fast as you can is kinda the idea they put into kid's minds.

Last updated Saturday, August 16 2003. Created Saturday, August 16 2003.

FLCL
This is a series which takes some getting used to. After watching the first episode, I knew I would need to watch it again before part two if I was to have any idea what was going on. I did, but still couldn't say exactly what was happening. What was real and what was imaginary? Did a robot really pop out of that kid's forehead, or was that some sort of artsy-fartsy "in" joke? My father once told me that things are funny when they are not what you expected, but you realise that they still make some sense. There were certainly plenty of unexpected things happening during FLCL, but whether they made any sense was initially hard to say. The first few episodes had me in a fluster--keeping track of the plots of series which comply to the rules of logic and physics is hard enough. I know nothing about the significance of sweet-versus-sour soft drinks, or eyebrows, not to mention robots popping out of people's foreheads, so I didn't "get" a lot of the jokes. The last three episodes made more sense to me; I was afraid there would be no semi-rational conclusion to the story (and maybe not even an ongoing story at all), but there was--sort of. There must be something I like about this show, because Cartoon Network is replaying it for the fifth time, and I've rewatched it each time. Maybe I do it because each time I notice something which slipped by me before, and this new tidbit is both amusing and makes the series as a whole make more sense. I think I'm finally starting to appreciate what a gem this show really is (the dubbing is one of the best things about it--it's hard to believe that FLCL was originally made in another language). The first time around I felt it was a good thing that the series consisted of only six episodes, or else I feared my brain might melt. Now I think I could (and gladly would) handle some more of the same. I'm still trying to figure out who or what "Atamisk" is, though.

P.S., Eric Gaede at THEManime says "Furi Kuri" is Japanese slang for "ass fondling", or something like that.

My favorite line: "I said to get the one with the Anna Nicole centerfold! Can't you get anything right?!"

8/03 #50

Last updated Wednesday, February 13 2008. Created Sunday, August 10 2003.

FLCL
This series does truly symbolize the phrase, WHAT THE HELL JUST HAPPENED!?!?!
I think this anime is just great all around in its parodies of everything from south park to the matrix all in awesome style.
This is defenitley an anime for all the post modernists out there because it does play around with different ways of looking at things, and when roboy is flying through the sky in his red suit, i just cant help but think about the painting red center.
But i think the words of that classic anime Urusei Yatsura sum it up:
Weird weird weird, space is super weird.
Lets put weird and weird together and make things even weirder.
When things get weirder they get fun!

Last updated Wednesday, August 06 2003. Created Wednesday, August 06 2003.

FLCL is...well different. You have a 12-year old boy named Naota (mostly refered to as Ta-kun) who's brother is in America. He lives with his father and grandfather at the small bread store they run. His brother's odd 17-year old girlfriend Mamimi has latched onto Naota for sexual and emotional gratification. Then Haruko-san comes on the scene and bops him on the head with her guitar. After that, things get really weird with robots and other strange things coming out of his head.

Personally, this isn't my kind of anime. I will admit to laughing a few times though including a couple of belly laughs. There is a lot of symbolism in this title, a lot more than your average anime. I watched it twice in English and once in Japanese and while I was able to actually understand what was going on the 2nd time through, it still isn't my kind of anime. I will say this, the English dub may be the best one ever done. Great care has been given to the casting of the series and the English VA's are matched well with their Japanese seiyuu counterparts. And they even included many of the honorifics in they English script (except -sama and a few -kun references). That's always a plus with me and it proves that an English dub can be very faithful (little domestication) to the original Japanese and be a HUGE success with American audiences (ie: casual anime fans). It is a shame that such a small company does such a fine job while so many of the big distributors can't be bothered. Kudos to Synch-Point!

The art is fine, but I didn't see anything over specail special about. Same thing for the animation. While there are no complaints, I saw a lot of cost-saving stuff done here to (distance shots, stills with flowing hair, pan-stills, etc.). The character designs are different. There are elements to let you know you are watching an anime title, but at times, the characters just looked ugly to me. I'm sure this was done on purpose though, considering the nature of FLCL. ;-P

Bottom line: it is odd, different, weird, bizarre, etc. Gainax fans will love this title as will those looking for stuff "out of the mainstream". Given the great care given to the R1 release, if you like this title, PLEASE buy it and send a message that you appreciate the fine work Synch-point did and that you'd like more distrobution companies follow their lead.

Last updated Saturday, November 08 2003. Created Tuesday, August 05 2003.

FLCLFuri Kuri looks at first a lot like Excel Saga. However Excel Saga doesn't make any sense really...
I just checked the FLCL : The Movie o_-a which is Episode 1-6 junctioned together. A bit dissapointed since I thought it was the sequel. I WISH FOR A SEQUEL!
One thing is for sure. You gotta be kinda open minded to like this anime. I'm pretty sure that a lot of mine friends wouldn't like it. Anyways, I would totally recommend anyone to check this out. It's weird, funny with lots-o-action! Do not forget to re-view FLCL if you wanna fully understand everything...which is hard but as good as it is, you won't probably get bored.
I gotta say...this is the anime with the best soundtrack. I love the background music. I love 'em a lot! "The Pillows" are simply incredible!
In a few words, I loved every aspect of the movie/episodes. Easily on my Top 5 Favorite Anime Movie.

FLCL
I realy dont to what to say its hard to explain this series without making it sound a little stupid but it one of the best animes I have seen in a while.
It might take a while to understand whats going on but by the 4th or 5th episode you have a good idea whats going on. Defenetly worth the buy. Warning though some of the pplz at my school that have seen it have been doing strange things like buying exspencive gitairs they cant play and coming to skool with fake eyebrows on i'm not kidding.

Last updated Friday, December 20 2002. Created Friday, December 20 2002.

FLCL
This is a fine example of weird as hell anime that excels. Furi Kuri isn't the kind of anime that comes along everyday, it's a one of a kind deep, weird, and funny concoction. The animation is outstanding, as well as those great Gainax character designs. The music is fantastic. Ride on shooting star is one of my favorite songs, and on the import dvd, the ride on shooting star music video was an extra. The Pillows really do a great job for the music. Naota and Haruko were both very intriging characters, with Naota being interesting to see how he reacts to what's happening around him and Haruko being absolutely hilarious and very mysterious, I LOVE Haruko's voice! All the bass guitar stuff was very interesting and I'm still wondering what was with that bracelet thing Haruko was wearing. Naota's dad was funny too, watch for him dressing up as a Nazi to fight against Naota in combat and talk about the manga Initial D, saying that it's a manga everyone loves. The guy with the 'eyebrows' was pretty strange but interesting and Mamimi was, um, odd. I still don't get the stuff about Naota's brother but the ending was really good! A highly reccomended anime for people who've seen a lot of Gainax stuff.

Last updated Wednesday, October 16 2002. Created Wednesday, October 16 2002.

FLCL
Shinseiki Evangelion was my favourite anime for a very long period. But I've changed my mind when I watched Furi-Kuri.
Weird. Unusual. No, these words don't make this anime justice. I got it! It's just "brain-squishing" anime. Do you want to be happy for a while? Do you want to enjoy being weird? Do you want to answer all the questions with just the stupid smile? Watch Furi-Kuri.
One more reason of liking it. Furi-Kuri is really made for hardcore otaku:
1. No famous seiyuu were involved in the production. The voices of teenage anime heroes were made by teenage actors.
2. Various animation styles were used:
excepting regular, there were 3D animation, SD, animated manga and so on.
3. Furi-Kuri was released in DVD and VHS. It was the first case in the history of anime, when the original DVD came with english subtitles! Does Gainax threat international otaku? It's hard to imagine but it's possible.
4. There's an awesome otaku character - Naota's father, Kamon Nandaba.
There also some just cool looking things:
1. Time slowing technique in the best traditions of "The Matrix" and John Woo movies. It's when flying man stops in the air and camera goes several circles around him.
2. Very fine blows and earthquakes!
3. Battles where the bass-guitars are used as the weapons!
4. Agent Amarao and his... eyebrows...
But I have a word of caution: if you're not very experienced on anime, you should better avoid Furi-Kuri. You may only hurt yourself, mentally and physically. Gainax entered the new millenium with this anime so it's made in a brand new thinking way.

FLCLFuri Kuri is excellent. Incredible animation combined with humor, hyperkinetic action, and an engaging, strange story set to the music of the Pillows. I've heard it described as Lain crossed with DiGi Charat with some Evangelion thrown in. This is not really accurate, but it's close enough to give you a vague idea of the tone of Furi Kuri.
The first two episodes really blew me away with their unbelievable computer enhanced animation. While in later episodes it goes downhill a bit, at one point sinking to the level of a South Park parody (groan), FLCL still stands as some of the best animation to date. Certainly, with its multiple styles, it is some of the most unique. Matrix bullet-time, animated manga, super deformed...FLCL continually explores visual style, that while not always successful, is consistantly interesting. The character designs are by Eva's own Sadamoto Yoshiyuki and are they work very well for this series. Interesting mecha designs, too, though not spectacular.
The music is done completly by the Pillows, a Japanese band with an alternative sound. The song hooks are insanely catchy and one finds himself humming the tunes for days. The Japanese voice cast turns in an excellent performance, keeping pace with the insane story and managing to be manic without becoming shrill and irritating.
The manic pacing and bizarre story may turn off some veiwers initially, but I urge them to stick it out, as I found the series to be a rewarding experience. It might be best to get some Gainax under your belt first like Wings of Honneamise and Evangelion. However, those used to Gainax's trademarked wierdness should have no problem with FLCL.
NOTE: FLCL has finally been released by Synch Point.

Last updated Wednesday, October 09 2002. Created Thursday, November 01 2001.

FLCL
When you first watch this anime, you'll ask yourself this question "What The Hell?" Indeed, it took me two or three times before I understood what the hell was going on. Once I did, however, I began to throughly enjoy this OVA Series of a boy who keeps growing monsters from his head and the girl from space with scotter and a guitar to bash his head in.
Some of its best parts is when it turns suddenly into a moving Manga, another part is when it parodies South Park. And of course, who could forget the Lupin parody either (with lots and lots of guns... everywhere). This series is brought to you by Gainax, proud makers of the Eva Series! Also, thanks from a former Translater from AnimEigo, Michael House, Volumes 2-6 are also all subtitled in English... something usually never seen on a Domestic Japanese DVD.
This series is a must have! Even if you don't like it, you can always show it to friends and say "This is Anime!" Hey, it's better than just showing DBZ.